Who doesn't want comfort? Everyone does. If I had to guess, most people not only choose their own clothing for style, but also for comfort.
Dogs are no exception.
A comfortable piece of clothing for your dog should not only look great but fit well. The choice of fabrics is also important to ensure comfort for your dog.
Choosing the right clothes that fit well and are constructed with comfortable fabrics will go a long way towards assuring your dog will keep the article on and feel comfortable doing so.
You may be tempted to go into a fancy boutique and choose an item that appeals to you, assuming your dog will look great in it.
Yes, your dog may look great and appearance is important, but it is even more critical that you choose something that will also feel good.
Here are few factors that you need to consider when buying clothes for your dog.
Dimension and Sizing of the Clothes
Clothing should not limit the dog’s physical movements. So, proper fitting is necessary. Different breeds are of various sizes and weights.
Their measurements are also different. Even within breeds, there is much variation, so you can not always go by a label that reads, “Perfect for Chihuahuas and other small dogs.”
For example, the clothing of small breeds like Chihuahua, or Yorkshire Terrier that may only weight a few pounds will also have little neck and back sizes.
A standard toy poodle may have a neck of 5.5", back 7" and chest 12." But your dog’s dimensions may be different, so it is always best to measure your dog before you begin your search for the perfect piece of clothing.
Any Clothing for Dogs Should Never Impede Urination
Who would want an item of clothing that is made in such a way that the dog either urinates or defecates on it? Not only is it uncomfortable for the dog, smelly, but it is going to add to your laundry bill.
In the case of male dogs, look for clothes with a higher cutout around the belly and the groin area. These types of clothes will prevent the dog from urinating on them.
Choose Clothing for Dogs that is Suitable for the Weather and the Environment
Clothing for dogs should be right for the environment and weather. Dogs only have sweat glands on the bottom of their pads so they can overheat in the hot weather. Don’t put on any warm clothing in the hot weather even if it looks cute.
In the colder winter months, there is often confusion as to whether dogs need a sweater, coat or none at all.
In deciding whether your dog needs extra protection in the winter, let his hair be the deciding factor.
If the dog has a thin coat of hair, you should provide warm clothes when going outside.
The breeds with thick hair do not need sweaters that much. But if the dog is weak or sick, he should wear a jacket in cold weather. Hoodies, coats, or sweaters can also be a good option. Puppies and older dogs may need a little extra protection too.
Whether the dog has thick hair or not, if the weather is dangerously cold, keeping him inside is a good idea. Dogs, like people, are very susceptible to hypothermia and frostbite.
Clothing For Dogs: Choose Fabrics Wisely
While wearing any form of clothing, the dog will still need to move, walk, run or play.
If the material becomes a hindrance to the mobility of your dog, then the purpose of clothes is not fulfilled. Stretchy materials make movement easier. Examples of such materials are cotton and spandex. So, choose the materials wisely.
Special attention should be given to wool.
Sometimes yarns made with real wool can feel itchy, and you will most likely need to hand wash rather than throwing them in with your regular laundry.
To avoid this problem, choose a synthetic fabric or a mixture of cotton and washable wool.
Again, keep in mind that, thinner more breathable fabrics such as a mesh can be a good option for ultimate comfort.
Colors, Looks, and Design
Now comes the time to make your dog a wee bit cuter. Different occasions call for different styles.
If it’s Halloween, dress him as sweet pumpkin. At Thanksgiving, dresses him as turkey. There are many options for the Christmas holidays including cute Santa outfits or delightful elf costumes.
You can do everything as long as you keep the comfort factors in mind.
What about color? Maybe not a big concern for dogs, but it means a great deal for people.
As the dog doesn’t have the ability to choose what clothes and colors will best suit his needs, it is up to you, the doggie parent to make those choices.
Choose the color which you think is best. If in doubt, do as most people do and pick black because it matches everything. You have other color options as well, such as tan, white or blue. Make a choice!
Strips and Zippers and Other Choking Hazards
It may not make a big difference to dogs, but clothes that are easy to put on and take off are a must.
Sometimes dressing your dog can be a tough job especially if he is sick or uncoopera